Casey's blog

Without a doubt this is the wildest smoothie I've made this year! I'm really enjoying using more herbs and plant extracts in my green smoothies lately. Plus it makes for some wild concoctions! Learning more about herbs from my naturopath-student boyfriend has not only encouraged me to start a naturopathy degree next semester. It's also getting me experimenting more in the kitchen. Something I've really, really missed. It helps that I now have access to an amazing blender and a full indoor kitchen, having moved out of my forest caravan and back into civilisation last week!

Schizandra berry is an adaptogen, meaning it helps you adapt to physical and emotional stress. It's also an incredible liver tonic and antioxidant, assisting with both phase 1 and 2 liver detoxification. Healthy liver function is vital for great skin, because if your liver isn't detoxifying properly toxins will use the skin as a back up escape route, meaning breakouts and rashes. I used the powdered berry in this super smoothie. You can buy ground up, dried schizandra berry from health food shops. Or you can order it through australherbs.com.au for around $11 for 250 grams.

Aloe Vera gel straight from the plant contains polysaccharides that lubricate the skin, joints and nervous system, giving your skin that dewy look. Anti-inflammatory aloe is also epic for healing the gut and is an amazing immune-modulator, meaning it helps bring an deficient immune system back to normal boosting your ability to fight bacterial and viral infections.

Raw cacao nibs are high in antioxidants such as Vitamin, C, as well as minerals magnesium, iron, and zinc - all crucial for healthy skin.

This smoothie was delicious and the perfect post-gardening breakfast! Here's the recipe: